Portugal is a country of rich history, stunning coastlines, and incredible cuisine, but no visit is complete without trying its most famous pastry—the pastel de nata. These flaky, creamy, and caramelized custard tarts are a beloved staple, found in bakeries and cafés across the country. Whether you’re strolling through Lisbon, exploring Porto, or venturing into smaller towns, there’s always a fresh pastel de nata waiting to be enjoyed.
For travelers planning their Portugal vacation, tasting the best pastéis de nata is an essential experience. From centuries-old bakeries to modern pastry shops, this guide will take you to the best spots for Portugal’s most iconic treat.
If you’re booking Portugal vacation packages or planning your own itinerary, be sure to include these stops. With curated packages for Portugal vacations from online agencies like Travelodeal, you can discover the country’s rich culinary scene while exploring its breathtaking landscapes.
Pastéis de Belém – The Original and the Most Famous
No discussion about pastéis de nata is complete without mentioning Pastéis de Belém. Located in Lisbon’s Belém district, this legendary bakery has been making these custard tarts since 1837, using a secret recipe handed down by monks from the nearby Jerónimos Monastery. The result? A perfectly flaky crust, silky-smooth custard, and a slightly caramelized top that melts in your mouth.
The bakery is incredibly popular, so expect long lines, but the wait is well worth it. Pro tip: Enjoy your pastel de nata warm, sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar, paired with a Portuguese espresso (bica).
Manteigaria – The Lisbon Favorite
For many locals, Manteigaria is the go-to spot for a high-quality pastel de nata. With locations in Lisbon and Porto, this bakery focuses solely on perfecting this pastry. Each pastel is made fresh throughout the day, so you’re guaranteed a warm, crispy, and creamy bite every time.
One of the highlights of visiting Manteigaria is watching the bakers work behind a glass counter, expertly preparing and baking these golden delights. If you’re on a Portugal vacation, make sure to stop by and taste one of the best pastéis de nata outside of Belém.
Fábrica da Nata – A Creamy, Flaky Delight
Another top contender in the pastel de nata scene is Fábrica da Nata. With locations in Lisbon, Porto, and Cascais, this bakery offers a cozy atmosphere and some of the best custard tarts in Portugal. The secret? A buttery, flaky crust and an extra creamy filling, giving each bite a rich, indulgent flavor.
Unlike other bakeries, Fábrica da Nata offers a full café experience, making it the perfect place to sit back and enjoy your pastry with a cup of Portuguese galão (milk coffee). If you’re exploring Portugal’s cities, this is a must-visit stop.
Confeitaria Nacional – A Historic Treat in Lisbon
Established in 1829, Confeitaria Nacional is one of Lisbon’s oldest and most prestigious pastry shops. While it’s best known for its Bolo Rei (King Cake), it also serves some of the finest pastéis de nata in the city. With a rich history and an elegant interior, this bakery provides a unique and classic Portuguese experience.
Located near Praça da Figueira, this is the perfect spot to grab a pastel de nata while exploring Lisbon’s historic center.
Aloma – Award-Winning Perfection
For those looking for an award-winning pastel de nata, Aloma is the place to go. This bakery, which has won multiple national awards, is famous for its balanced texture and flavor—not too sweet, not too heavy, but just right.
With locations in Lisbon, Porto, and Cascais, Aloma’s pastéis de nata are beloved by both locals and visitors. Whether you’re on a food tour or simply indulging in Portugal’s culinary scene, this is a must-try.
Savoring the Best Pastéis de Nata in Portugal
Finding the best pastéis de nata in Portugal is more than just a food experience—it’s a journey through history, tradition, and craftsmanship. Whether you visit the legendary Pastéis de Belém, the local favorite Manteigaria, or the historic Confeitaria Nacional, each bite tells a story of Portugal’s rich culinary heritage.
